Five worshippers kidnapped from an ECWA church in Omugo, Kwara State, have died while in captivity, according to an escapee who survived the ordeal.
The victims were taken on March 22, 2026, when gunmen stormed ECWA Church Omugo in Oro Ago District, Ifelodun LGA during service. They fired into the air, caused panic, then forced several congregants into a nearby forest. Police later said most of those abducted were over 70.
Among the five now feared dead is the wife of the church minister, Pastor Omole. A source told SaharaReporters the escapee relayed details of their deaths from the kidnappers’ den after spending weeks in captivity. Families of the deceased have been notified.
The kidnappers initially demanded N1 billion ransom, then settled for N20 million plus foodstuffs and alcohol after negotiations with families and community leaders. Despite receiving payment, they did not release the captives.
The deaths have deepened grief in Omugo, where streets have turned quiet as residents flee. Community members say the attack shows how vulnerable rural churches remain, and they’re frustrated by the lack of rescue progress. Security agencies say operations to free any remaining abductees are ongoing, but have not confirmed the deaths.
Eight worshippers were kidnapped in the March attack. The fate of the three others is still unknown.
